Israeli Footballer Recounts Harrowing Dubai Flight Hijacking Attempt

Former Israeli footballer Oren Ido described a "Hollywood script" unfolding on a Fly Dubai flight from Dubai, where he alleges the co-pilot attempted to crash the plane. Ido, who was traveling with his young children, recounted the terrifying experience on the "5 Baavir" radio show, stating the aircraft began to "fly and move from wing to wing," causing its tail to break. He claimed the co-pilot stabbed the pilot and tried to bring the plane down.

Passengers, including Ido, were alerted by flight attendants who sought help. Ido described the plane diving erratically, with a phone from the front row reportedly reaching him. He recounted hearing passengers reciting the "Shema Yisrael" prayer in fear. The pilot reportedly made an announcement before opening the cockpit door and collapsing. Ido stated that two European pilots, who were also passengers, managed to gain control of the aircraft and land it safely.

Ido detailed the aftermath, where passengers were accommodated in Saudi Arabia, receiving food and medical attention. He mentioned two Israelis who fought the co-pilot sustained injuries, one with a head injury and the other a hand cut. Ido himself sustained minor bruises. He expressed uncertainty about passengers' willingness to board another flight back to Israel, with plans reportedly in place to fly them from Dubai.